Vera Allott, 84, has dedicated most of her life to helping others working as a home carer for Bradford Council for 20 years and after retiring continuing to support people in need. Mrs Allott, of Thurley Road, East Bowling, visited a blind elderly neighbour three times a day for 16 years.

The pensioner has also helped other residents over the years, washing clothes, taking them to hospital and doctors' appointments and doing their shopping.

She has also been a church youth worker and now regularly attends services at St John's Church in Bowling.

Mrs Allott said: “Through it I’ve made wonderful friends so I could recommend being a good neighbour to anyone. To have friends, you have to be friendly.”